There’s a lot of waiting in real estate. You’re aware of that if you’ve bought or sold a house. As a Realtor, I wait for signs, photos, appraisers, inspectors, clients, lenders, other agents and closings.

Today, while I’m waiting for you to call about selling your house (or buying one), I’ll practice a few affirmations – Realtors are big on affirmations. I may (will) twist them a bit to suit my purpose.

1.) I am the architect of my life (are you thinking about new construction?); I build its foundation (no cracks, please) and choose its contents (built-ins?).

2.) Today, I am brimming with energy (plumbed for gas in the kitchen) and overflowing with joy (immediately upon closing).

3.) My body is healthy (though a bit tired); my mind is brilliant (I’m definitely bright, but I don’t know about brilliant!); my soul is tranquil (that might be a stretch – I really need to hear from a lender).

Add some personality to your space! In 1923, it became mandatory that each household have a mailbox or a letter slot. The most popular style, known as the tunnel box, was designed in 1915 by an engineer, Roy Joroleman, who also happened to be a Postal employee. While functional, I wouldn’t call the tunnel mail box anything but boring.

Should you decide to create your own mailbox, keep in mind there are guidelines to be followed.

Position your mailbox 41″ to 45″ from the road surface to the bottom of the mailbox or point of mail entry.

Place your mailbox 6″ to 8″ back from the curb. If you do not have a raised curb, contact your local postmaster for guidance.

Put your house or apartment number on the mailbox.

If your mailbox is on a different street from your house or apartment, put your full street address on the box.

If you are attaching the box to your house, make sure the postal carrier can reach it easily from your sidewalk, steps, or porch. (courtesy of the US Postal Service)

Any questions or concerns should be addressed by your postmaster for a stamp of approval. In addition to your postmaster, check with your HOA. Their guidelines may be more stringent than those of the Post Office.